Meet the veterinarians
About Dr. Tracy Oakes
I grew up in the suburbs of Cincinnati, Ohio, which involved eating Skyline chili, being a diehard Bengals fan, and visiting Kings Island (a local amusement park) every summer.
My grandmother used to tell the story of a turtle we saw attempting to cross a road when I was about 9 years old. I cried until my grandpa turned the car around so I could get out and carry that old turtle across the road. However, the direct event that led me to vet school in my early 20s was the stray, very sick kitten I found and smuggled into my parent's house for several days without anyone knowing. I took him to a veterinary clinic and the vet let me go into the treatment area, where I saw a world that intrigued me like nothing I had ever encountered. I decided right then and there to be a veterinarian. I enrolled in college a few weeks later and never looked back.
I attended the University of Cincinnati, where I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in biology. I then went on to The Ohio State University and graduated magna cum laude with a doctorate in veterinary medicine.
I worked in general small animal medicine for many years. I particularly enjoyed dermatology, endocrinology, nutrition, and all aspects of feline medicine. One huge perk of being a vet has been the ability to provide good lives for stray pets that I (or a coworker) would find. We cleaned them up, treated their medical conditions, and rehomed them.
When my heart dog developed violent behaviors and attempts to correct the problem with medication and behavior modification failed, I had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize my boy. I know it was the right decision, but it was tragic. That experience helped me understand and empathize with people facing similar situations. I love affording families peaceful final memories of their beloved pets.
When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking in the mountains, running in neighborhood parks, and volunteering at my child's school. My favorite holiday is Halloween, and I decorate my entire house and yard with huge animatronics, spider webs, and strobe lights.
About Dr. Liz Braasch
I grew up in Encinitas, California, a surf town suburb of San Diego. I was fortunate to grow up near the beach where it was always bright and sunny. I joke that I am not used to driving in anything that falls from the sky—but I’m working on it!
I received a field hockey scholarship to UC Berkeley and was interested in becoming a zookeeper. But after spending time working at a veterinary clinic, I discovered a passion for medicine and I knew I wanted to become a veterinarian. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in molecular environmental biology, I attended UC Davis’ School of Veterinary Medicine, where I received my veterinary degree.
I’ve spent my career in emergency and specialty medicine, and am especially passionate about anesthesia and pain management. My work in emergency medicine has taught me a lot about the importance of quality end-of-life care, and I enjoy collaborating with clients to determine the best way to care for their pets at the end of their life.
Growing up, I was never present when my pets passed away, but in the past few years, I have had to humanely euthanize two of my cats. I knew I had done everything I could, but I still struggled and wondered if I was selfish for wanting more time with them. My friends were so supportive and showed me how much people need others to reassure them when saying goodbye to a pet, and that is something I do for my clients.
Being able to provide a gentle and peaceful end to life is a great kindness that we can give our pets who have contributed so much to our lives, and I feel honored to be able to help with that.
Most of my time outside of work is spent with my two daughters. I have started geocaching with my oldest and am hoping to get her interested in hiking as well. I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, skiing, and playing sports. I was an NCAA field hockey goalie for UC Berkeley - GO BEARS! I also enjoy baking, making necklaces, and reading—especially young adult novels like Harry Potter!
About Dr. Robbie Lawless
My father was in the military, so we moved every two to three years. We lived as far east as Maine and as far west as Hawaii. I loved the experiences I gained, and moving around ultimately led me to Colorado, which is my absolute favorite state.
I was one of those 5-year-olds who latched on to wanting to become a veterinarian and never let go. The profession fit my desire to keep regular company with creatures I adored while fulfilling the drive to constantly learn and solve problems.
I earned an associate’s degree from York College in Nebraska, and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for my bachelors degree. I earned my doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University.
I found my niche in general practice 20 years ago. It is fulfilling and empowering to walk alongside pet owners from the first days of puppyhood to the rainbow bridge. I enjoy helping them understand what is going on at different life stages so they can make the best decisions about how to care for their pet. I also love general soft tissue and oral surgery. Adding a dedicated time for hospice and compassionate euthanasia will allow me to more completely provide care for the full life of the pet.
When I was a teenager, my beloved dog Petey was euthanized without our family present. Circumstances dictated that we weren't able to be with him and it tore up my heart. I would like every pet who is facing their last moments to be in a loving and comfortable environment surrounded by the people they love. I see compassionate euthanasia as a mercy for pets who are facing illness or decline, and their families. It is very fulfilling to me to provide circumstances where owners can safely grieve and provide the most gentle release from this life for their pets.
I love to read and hike. Devouring a good book in a few days time or conquering a trail are both rejuvenating and invigorating to me in their own ways.
About Dr. Tonja Anderson
I am a Louisiana native but knew the heat/humidity was too much for me, so I moved to Colorado 15 years ago. I was not one of those people who always knew I wanted to be a veterinarian, in fact, my original plan was to get a Ph. D in linguistics after completing my bachelor's degree in English at Louisiana State University at Shreveport. Fortunately, I started working in a veterinary practice right out of high school and had that "ah ha" moment during my third year of undergrad that made me realize helping animals was my calling.
Following graduation, I moved to Colorado to complete my science pre-requisites and then attended veterinary school at Colorado State University. Since graduation I have been a small animal general practitioner in Littleton, Colorado.
Prior to starting vet school, I read the book Being Mortal by Atul Gawande and it truly changed my trajectory as it teaches us to value QUALITY of life over quantity. We in medicine are taught that death is our ultimate nemesis and to fight against it no matter the literal or physical cost, so I have made it my mission to normalize the conversations around death/dying and to teach my clients that sometimes euthanasia is the most compassionate choice we can make for our pets. I believe that every animal deserves the dignity of a peaceful passing surrounded by their loved ones and have counseled many families with end-of-life care decisions.
I have been told time and again during a euthanasia, "this must be the hardest part of your job", and my answer is that "it is, but it isn't." It's hard knowing that a family is saying their final goodbye to a beloved pet, but I view death as a last gift we can give our loved ones in their time of suffering. I am grateful that we as veterinarians can provide this for our patients, and it is a privilege and an honor that I can be a guide for families during the most difficult decision we face as pet owners.
In addition to this rewarding work, I am also a small animal relief veterinarian in the Denver area. I share my life with my husband and our four furry children - my old man Clancy, a 14-year-old Basset Hound, a Bloodhound named Zelda, and two Siberian cats named Margo and Ivan. When I'm not working, I enjoy reading, craft projects, spending time in the Colorado sunshine and traveling.
About Dr. Carly Hohorst
I grew up in Easton, Connecticut, a small town known for family farms and beautiful land. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. I was involved with many animal-related organizations, including The United States Pony Club and 4H club, and I volunteered with the Audubon Society and many animal shelters. I was determined to turn my passion for animal care into a career.
I graduated from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in biology, and then attended veterinary school at Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine in Glendale, Arizona.
Holistic medicine is my passion. I enjoy using alternative modalities like acupuncture, chiropractic, traditional Chinese medicine, and food therapy to support my patients through all phases of life. I am also trained in hospice and palliative care. I enjoy supporting my patients and their owners during their golden years.
I have lost a few pets of my own over the years. A loss that had a particular impact was that of my miniature horse, Lil’ Chef. He was only 6 years old and had an immune-mediated disease. Lil’ Chef received wonderful care, but my one wish was that I could have taken him home to say goodbye surrounded by his companions instead of letting him pass in the hospital.
I have experienced plenty of euthanasias in hospital settings. While they are as peaceful as possible, many patients are more comfortable in their own homes. I value being able to support pet owners through this time in their companion's life.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé, Cody, and our animals. We have two dogs—Lilly Ann and Finnegan—three cats—Hailey, Archie, and Oliver—and three horses—Solea, Cheddie, and Magnolia. I also enjoy cooking, hiking, horseback riding, and paddle boarding.
About Dr. Tracy Oakes
I grew up in the suburbs of Cincinnati, Ohio, which involved eating Skyline chili, being a diehard Bengals fan, and visiting Kings Island (a local amusement park) every summer.
My grandmother used to tell the story of a turtle we saw attempting to cross a road when I was about 9 years old. I cried until my grandpa turned the car around so I could get out and carry that old turtle across the road. However, the direct event that led me to vet school in my early 20s was the stray, very sick kitten I found and smuggled into my parent's house for several days without anyone knowing. I took him to a veterinary clinic and the vet let me go into the treatment area, where I saw a world that intrigued me like nothing I had ever encountered. I decided right then and there to be a veterinarian. I enrolled in college a few weeks later and never looked back.
I attended the University of Cincinnati, where I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in biology. I then went on to The Ohio State University and graduated magna cum laude with a doctorate in veterinary medicine.
I worked in general small animal medicine for many years. I particularly enjoyed dermatology, endocrinology, nutrition, and all aspects of feline medicine. One huge perk of being a vet has been the ability to provide good lives for stray pets that I (or a coworker) would find. We cleaned them up, treated their medical conditions, and rehomed them.
When my heart dog developed violent behaviors and attempts to correct the problem with medication and behavior modification failed, I had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize my boy. I know it was the right decision, but it was tragic. That experience helped me understand and empathize with people facing similar situations. I love affording families peaceful final memories of their beloved pets.
When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking in the mountains, running in neighborhood parks, and volunteering at my child's school. My favorite holiday is Halloween, and I decorate my entire house and yard with huge animatronics, spider webs, and strobe lights.
About Dr. Liz Braasch
I grew up in Encinitas, California, a surf town suburb of San Diego. I was fortunate to grow up near the beach where it was always bright and sunny. I joke that I am not used to driving in anything that falls from the sky—but I’m working on it!
I received a field hockey scholarship to UC Berkeley and was interested in becoming a zookeeper. But after spending time working at a veterinary clinic, I discovered a passion for medicine and I knew I wanted to become a veterinarian. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in molecular environmental biology, I attended UC Davis’ School of Veterinary Medicine, where I received my veterinary degree.
I’ve spent my career in emergency and specialty medicine, and am especially passionate about anesthesia and pain management. My work in emergency medicine has taught me a lot about the importance of quality end-of-life care, and I enjoy collaborating with clients to determine the best way to care for their pets at the end of their life.
Growing up, I was never present when my pets passed away, but in the past few years, I have had to humanely euthanize two of my cats. I knew I had done everything I could, but I still struggled and wondered if I was selfish for wanting more time with them. My friends were so supportive and showed me how much people need others to reassure them when saying goodbye to a pet, and that is something I do for my clients.
Being able to provide a gentle and peaceful end to life is a great kindness that we can give our pets who have contributed so much to our lives, and I feel honored to be able to help with that.
Most of my time outside of work is spent with my two daughters. I have started geocaching with my oldest and am hoping to get her interested in hiking as well. I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, skiing, and playing sports. I was an NCAA field hockey goalie for UC Berkeley - GO BEARS! I also enjoy baking, making necklaces, and reading—especially young adult novels like Harry Potter!
About Dr. Robbie Lawless
My father was in the military, so we moved every two to three years. We lived as far east as Maine and as far west as Hawaii. I loved the experiences I gained, and moving around ultimately led me to Colorado, which is my absolute favorite state.
I was one of those 5-year-olds who latched on to wanting to become a veterinarian and never let go. The profession fit my desire to keep regular company with creatures I adored while fulfilling the drive to constantly learn and solve problems.
I earned an associate’s degree from York College in Nebraska, and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for my bachelors degree. I earned my doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University.
I found my niche in general practice 20 years ago. It is fulfilling and empowering to walk alongside pet owners from the first days of puppyhood to the rainbow bridge. I enjoy helping them understand what is going on at different life stages so they can make the best decisions about how to care for their pet. I also love general soft tissue and oral surgery. Adding a dedicated time for hospice and compassionate euthanasia will allow me to more completely provide care for the full life of the pet.
When I was a teenager, my beloved dog Petey was euthanized without our family present. Circumstances dictated that we weren't able to be with him and it tore up my heart. I would like every pet who is facing their last moments to be in a loving and comfortable environment surrounded by the people they love. I see compassionate euthanasia as a mercy for pets who are facing illness or decline, and their families. It is very fulfilling to me to provide circumstances where owners can safely grieve and provide the most gentle release from this life for their pets.
I love to read and hike. Devouring a good book in a few days time or conquering a trail are both rejuvenating and invigorating to me in their own ways.
About Dr. Tonja Anderson
I am a Louisiana native but knew the heat/humidity was too much for me, so I moved to Colorado 15 years ago. I was not one of those people who always knew I wanted to be a veterinarian, in fact, my original plan was to get a Ph. D in linguistics after completing my bachelor's degree in English at Louisiana State University at Shreveport. Fortunately, I started working in a veterinary practice right out of high school and had that "ah ha" moment during my third year of undergrad that made me realize helping animals was my calling.
Following graduation, I moved to Colorado to complete my science pre-requisites and then attended veterinary school at Colorado State University. Since graduation I have been a small animal general practitioner in Littleton, Colorado.
Prior to starting vet school, I read the book Being Mortal by Atul Gawande and it truly changed my trajectory as it teaches us to value QUALITY of life over quantity. We in medicine are taught that death is our ultimate nemesis and to fight against it no matter the literal or physical cost, so I have made it my mission to normalize the conversations around death/dying and to teach my clients that sometimes euthanasia is the most compassionate choice we can make for our pets. I believe that every animal deserves the dignity of a peaceful passing surrounded by their loved ones and have counseled many families with end-of-life care decisions.
I have been told time and again during a euthanasia, "this must be the hardest part of your job", and my answer is that "it is, but it isn't." It's hard knowing that a family is saying their final goodbye to a beloved pet, but I view death as a last gift we can give our loved ones in their time of suffering. I am grateful that we as veterinarians can provide this for our patients, and it is a privilege and an honor that I can be a guide for families during the most difficult decision we face as pet owners.
In addition to this rewarding work, I am also a small animal relief veterinarian in the Denver area. I share my life with my husband and our four furry children - my old man Clancy, a 14-year-old Basset Hound, a Bloodhound named Zelda, and two Siberian cats named Margo and Ivan. When I'm not working, I enjoy reading, craft projects, spending time in the Colorado sunshine and traveling.
About Dr. Carly Hohorst
I grew up in Easton, Connecticut, a small town known for family farms and beautiful land. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. I was involved with many animal-related organizations, including The United States Pony Club and 4H club, and I volunteered with the Audubon Society and many animal shelters. I was determined to turn my passion for animal care into a career.
I graduated from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in biology, and then attended veterinary school at Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine in Glendale, Arizona.
Holistic medicine is my passion. I enjoy using alternative modalities like acupuncture, chiropractic, traditional Chinese medicine, and food therapy to support my patients through all phases of life. I am also trained in hospice and palliative care. I enjoy supporting my patients and their owners during their golden years.
I have lost a few pets of my own over the years. A loss that had a particular impact was that of my miniature horse, Lil’ Chef. He was only 6 years old and had an immune-mediated disease. Lil’ Chef received wonderful care, but my one wish was that I could have taken him home to say goodbye surrounded by his companions instead of letting him pass in the hospital.
I have experienced plenty of euthanasias in hospital settings. While they are as peaceful as possible, many patients are more comfortable in their own homes. I value being able to support pet owners through this time in their companion's life.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé, Cody, and our animals. We have two dogs—Lilly Ann and Finnegan—three cats—Hailey, Archie, and Oliver—and three horses—Solea, Cheddie, and Magnolia. I also enjoy cooking, hiking, horseback riding, and paddle boarding.
About Dr. Tracy Oakes
I grew up in the suburbs of Cincinnati, Ohio, which involved eating Skyline chili, being a diehard Bengals fan, and visiting Kings Island (a local amusement park) every summer.
My grandmother used to tell the story of a turtle we saw attempting to cross a road when I was about 9 years old. I cried until my grandpa turned the car around so I could get out and carry that old turtle across the road. However, the direct event that led me to vet school in my early 20s was the stray, very sick kitten I found and smuggled into my parent's house for several days without anyone knowing. I took him to a veterinary clinic and the vet let me go into the treatment area, where I saw a world that intrigued me like nothing I had ever encountered. I decided right then and there to be a veterinarian. I enrolled in college a few weeks later and never looked back.
I attended the University of Cincinnati, where I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in biology. I then went on to The Ohio State University and graduated magna cum laude with a doctorate in veterinary medicine.
I worked in general small animal medicine for many years. I particularly enjoyed dermatology, endocrinology, nutrition, and all aspects of feline medicine. One huge perk of being a vet has been the ability to provide good lives for stray pets that I (or a coworker) would find. We cleaned them up, treated their medical conditions, and rehomed them.
When my heart dog developed violent behaviors and attempts to correct the problem with medication and behavior modification failed, I had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize my boy. I know it was the right decision, but it was tragic. That experience helped me understand and empathize with people facing similar situations. I love affording families peaceful final memories of their beloved pets.
When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking in the mountains, running in neighborhood parks, and volunteering at my child's school. My favorite holiday is Halloween, and I decorate my entire house and yard with huge animatronics, spider webs, and strobe lights.